World’s Hottest Month Sparks Calls for Urgent Investment in Renewable Energy for Africa
During the hottest month ever recorded globally, 350Africa.org and partners have launched the REPower Afrika campaign, aimed at uniting regional community renewable energy projects to push for increased investment in clean energy.
The campaign highlights the severe impact of climate change on Africa, where 17 out of the 20 countries most threatened by climate impacts are located. Recent extreme weather events, such as severe droughts in Southern Africa and heavy rains in Tanzania, Kenya, and Burundi, have led to food shortages, fatalities, and displacement.
The REPower Afrika initiative showcases the potential of community-led renewable energy projects, demonstrating that renewable energy is a viable and equitable alternative to fossil fuels. These efforts provide hope for an energy-secure future and protection from worsening climate impacts.
The campaign emphasizes the need for significant investment from financial institutions and developed nations to facilitate Africa’s transition to renewable energy. African governments are urged to create enabling policies and regulations to attract substantial investments in clean energy.
“Renewable energy is not only a sustainable choice but also a driver of economic development,” said Landry Ninteretse, Africa Regional Director at 350.org. “Africa’s wealth of renewable energy potential presents a great opportunity for the continent to lead the global energy transition. By working together with governments, civil society, and community leaders, we can create a supportive environment for community-centered renewable energy solutions, avert climate disaster, and ensure a sustainable future for all.”
Communities in the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) region, including Uganda and Tanzania, are showcasing the potential of renewable energy. Solar installations in these areas are improving lives by providing light for children to study, creating green jobs, and enhancing energy access while protecting the environment.
Edwin Mumbere, Director at the Centre for Citizens Conserving Environment, highlighted the energy access challenges in Uganda. “REPower Afrika advocates for off-grid solutions like solar home systems and mini-grids and supports innovative financing models. Additionally, policy reforms and community engagement are crucial for creating a supportive environment for private sector investment and ensuring the long-term sustainability of solar projects.”
Rehema Peters, Founder of Partnership for Green Future, emphasized the devastating impacts of climate change in Tanzania and across Africa. “Despite global agreements like the Paris Agreement, there’s a glaring gap between promises made and the real-life struggles of those most affected. It’s time for actionable policies that prioritize clean energy solutions, including tax incentives and local manufacturing of renewable technologies, to secure a sustainable future for Tanzania.”
Agnes Appiah-Hall, Global Campaigns Director at 350.org, pointed out that finance is the main barrier to renewable energy across Africa. “We must turn to the rich countries and corporations that have exploited African countries for fossil fuels. The money generated by a global wealth tax could help drive forward the renewable energy transition with the kinds of community-driven projects REPower Afrika is putting center stage.”
The REPower Afrika campaign will feature ten gatherings across Uganda and Tanzania, with solidarity actions in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Benin, Togo, Ghana, and Nigeria. These events aim to unite communities, advocate for clean energy, and promote sustainable development.
